Two-and-a-half years ago, Elliot Brown from Durham in the UK could speak fluently. But the nine-year-old was unable to read or write properly.
However, a few months later, Elliot's life changed dramatically. He was chosen to take part in a study aimed at establishing whether children with learning difficulties could benefit from taking supplements containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
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Six months down the line, Elliot's school grades had improved, and the boy was enthusiastic about his homework and passionate about classical music.
Elliot is one of many children who are currently benefiting from research being conducted by the Durham Local Education Authority in the UK.
What the research shows
According to a report by the Daily Mail, this study of 100 children was designed to find a way to help the 30% of children who are suffering from conditions such as dyslexia (a developmental disorder that affects a child's ability to read and write), dyspraxia (an inability to make skilled movements with accuracy) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is characterised by excessive activity levels and lack of concentration.
Researchers found that after taking tablets containing high-grade fish oils (with EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid) and virgin evening primrose oil (with GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid) for six months, children's behaviour improved dramatically.
In a more recent study, it was found that supplements of fatty acids could also improve the behaviour and the attention span of teens with ADHD, Decision News Media reported.
In this study, 20 teenagers aged 12 to 15 were supplemented with omega-3 and omega-6 oils. Over 90% of the teens had moderate to severe ADHD.
After three months of taking capsules containing the fatty acids EPA, GLA, DHA and vitamin E, the teenagers' inattentiveness fell from an average of 94% at the start of the trial to a mere 17% at the end. Impressive results were also seen in terms of impulsivity, where ratings dropped from 89% to 28%.
Specific functions
Experts believe that the different fatty acids have very specific functions. As an example, it is believed that EPA increases blood flow, regulates hormones and boosts the immune system – all of which have a positive effect on brain function. DHA, on the other hand, makes it easier for the brain to transit electrical signals.
So far, studies have mostly focused on children and teenagers. But scientists will be taking the research a step further during the next few months when the effect of fatty acid supplementation will be tested on the parents of ADHD kids, according to Decision News Media.
It is a well-recognised fact that ADHD runs in families, so experts suspect that parents may be affected too. Once again, the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, in the form of fish and evening primrose oil, will be put to the test.
No definite recommendations yet
It should be noted, however, that research on ADHD and fatty acids is ongoing and that no definite recommendations can be made as yet.
In the meantime, experts say that fatty acid supplementation couldn’t hurt, but that it shouldn't be seen in isolation. When it comes to the treatment of ADHD, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, elimination of caffeine and regular exercise should also play an important role. – (Carine van Rooyen, Health24)
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